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Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum)

Geranium robertianum, or Herb-Robert, is a biennial or annual herb. It has delicate pink flowers, fern-like leaves, and reddish stems. It thrives in shady, moist environm

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Thrives in partial to full shade.

Watering

Prefers consistently moist soil; tolerates short dry periods.

Soil

Well-drained, humus-rich soil. Tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay, as long as drainage is good.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Generally not required, especially in rich soil.

Care Requirements

Light

Thrives in partial to full shade.

Can tolerate full sun in cool climates

Water

Prefers consistently moist soil; tolerates short dry periods.

Regularly during dry spells

Soil

Well-drained, humus-rich soil. Tolerates a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay, as long as drainage is good.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures.

Hardy in temperate zones

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Generally not required, especially in rich soil.

Light application in poor soil during spring

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Category

Ornamental, Medicinal

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden, Groundcover

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Plant Height

15-50 cm

Spread

30-60 cm

Growth Rate

Fast

Leaf Color

Green, Red

Leaf Type

Pinnately lobed

Flower Size

1-2 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

15000

Weed Status

Yes

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JulPeak fruit · Jul
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths87
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · FebPeak fruit · Feb
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths87
Synonyms
Geranium eriophorum H.Lév.
Geranium lebelii Boreau
Geranium mosquense Goldb.
Geranium palmatisectum Dulac
Geranium rubellum Moench
Geranium scopulicola Jord. ex Nyman
Robertiella robertianum (L.) Hanks
Robertium vulgare Picard
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderGeraniales
  • familyGeraniaceae
  • genusGeranium
  • speciesGeranium robertianum
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

No

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

No

Rating: 0/5

Edible

No

May cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals upon contact. Ingestion is generally not considered toxic to humans or pets according to major sources.

Additional Care Tips

Herb-Robert prefers consistently moist soil, especially in its natural woodland habitat. Water regularly, particularly during dry spells or if grown in sunnier locations, to prevent the soil from drying out completely. While it can tolerate short periods of drought once established, consistent moisture promotes healthier, more vigorous growth and flowering. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root issues.

FAQs

Is Herb-Robert considered a weed?

Yes, Herb-Robert is often considered a weed, particularly in gardens and disturbed areas, due to its vigorous self-seeding and ability to spread rapidly. However, it is also valued for its ornamental qualities in wild or naturalized garden settings.

What are the ideal growing conditions for Herb-Robert?

Herb-Robert thrives in partial to full shade and prefers consistently moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. It is adaptable to various soil types and can tolerate some sun in cooler climates if adequate moisture is provided.

Is Herb-Robert safe for pets?

According to authoritative sources like the ASPCA, Herb-Robert (Geranium robertianum) is generally considered non-toxic to common household pets such as dogs, cats, and horses.

How does Herb-Robert spread in the garden?

Herb-Robert primarily spreads through prolific self-seeding. Its seeds are dispersed effectively, allowing it to colonize new areas quickly. It can also spread vegetatively to a limited extent, forming small clumps.

Why do the leaves of Herb-Robert turn red?

The leaves of Herb-Robert often turn a vibrant reddish color, especially in autumn or when exposed to strong sunlight, cold temperatures, or nutrient stress. This coloration is due to the production of anthocyanin pigments.